Michael and Emily Curtis and family, of Thompson, were among the families honored during the 68th annual Missouri Farm Family Day on Aug. 11 at the Missouri State Fair, a news release stated.

The Curtis family was selected as the Audrain County Missouri Family Farm by the University of Missouri Extension in Audrain County and the local Farm Bureau. The family includes daughters, Greenley and Anniston.

Each year, the fair sets aside a day to recognize farm families from across the state that are active in their communities, involved in agriculture and/or participate in local outreach and extension programs such as 4-H or FFA.

The Curtis family operates a show pig operation, at which they raise show pigs sold to 4-H and FFA showmen, both local and across the nation. Their pigs have won the American Royal and, most recently, the Kansas State Fair.

According to the release, one can find the Curtis family showing during the spring and summer and cheering on their customers and friends all year long. They know that kids who show livestock learn valuable lessons about life, and they are proud to be a part of the industry.

The annual event is sponsored by five partner agencies: the Missouri Farm Bureau; Missouri Department of Agriculture; Missouri State Fair Commissioners; MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources and MU Extension.

“The event showcases the impact that Missouri farm families have on the economy and heritage of the state,” Missouri State Fair Director Jason Moore said. “These families are involved in agriculture activities in their communities and are active participants in local outreach and extension. As the premier showcase for Missouri agriculture, the Missouri State Fair is most certainly the appropriate place to celebrate these families.”